Just how big is Australia?

Australia is not only the world’s sixth largest country, the sheer size of its natural attractions and landmarks is also truly impressive. With sprawling national parks and deserts that are larger than whole countries combined, the vastness of this country contributes to why it’s so unique.

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Just how big is Australia?

The size of Australia’s natural attractions and landmarks may surprise you…

Australia is not only the world’s sixth largest country, the sheer size of its natural attractions and landmarks is also truly impressive. With sprawling national parks and deserts that are larger than whole countries combined, the vastness of this country contributes to why it’s so unique.

Australia in comparison to China,Europe, Japan and the USA.

Sometimes it’s hard to tell because of the unique – and highly recognisable – shape of Australia but when you visually compare it with other countries you can see how just how large Australia really is.

The ruggedly beautiful Kimberley region in Western Australia covers an area of 424,517 km2 alone. That’s roughly three times the size of England and fifteen percent larger than Japan. What makes it even more fascinating is that through this entire area there is only one sealed road…

The Great Barrier Reef in Queensland covers 344,400 km2 in area - that's bigger than the United Kingdom, Switzerland and Holland combined and covers an area equal to 70 million football fields. Oh, and did we mention it’s also the largest coral reef ecosystem on earth? Amazing.

One of the largest monoliths in the world, Uluru in the Northern Territory rises 348 metres above the desert floor and has a circumference of 9.4 kilometres. To relate that to some other iconic landmarks, that’s higher than the Eiffel Tower in Paris or the Chrysler Building in New York!

Australia’s largest national park, Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory, is equal to the size of Israel and nearly half the size of Switzerland - so you need plenty of time to explore all of its incredible 20,000 square kilometres.

Australia has around 50,000 kilometres of spectacular coastline...which includes over 11,000 beaches like this one. Being a nation completely surrounded by water means that we have an abundance of beautiful beachesto choose from… lucky us!

The breathtaking Simpson Desert, which covers the southeast corner of the Northern Territory and extends over the South Australia and Queensland borders, is the world's largest sand dune desert, covering an area that is the size of England and Wales combined.

More Holiday Ideas

We’re shining the spotlight on Australia’s vibrant cities and their unique attractions and experiences. Each city is distinct from the other but truly Australian in flavour. Learn about city precincts such as The Rocks in Sydney, Brisbane’s South Bank and Perth’s funky central suburbs. Be devoured by Adelaide’s Central Markets. Explore new places and trends, from Melbourne’s summer rooftops to Darwin’s revitalised waterfront and art precinct. Read about our city waterways, botanic gardens and cultural and heritage attractions. Discover new destinations like Albany, Bundaberg and Glenelg. We have great journey ideas to help you explore our cities or use them as a base for your Australian adventure.

Whether you’ve got two weeks to see the sights or six months to cover the country in a campervan, here you will find everything you need to know about the places to go and things to do on your Australian holiday. Use the suggested itineraries to help you plan your own perfect Australian adventure. If you’re seeking nature, adventure, art and culture, food, wine or inspirational holidays, you will find everything you need here.

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